AN OSWESTRY man has denied multiple counts of rape and sexual assault and will stand trial next summer.

Elliot Curley, of Western Avenue in Whittington, appeared at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Thursday, October 13 charged with three counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration and two counts of sexual assault, all dating back to December 30, 2020.

Curley, 34, pleaded not guilty to the three charges of rape - which all relate to the same incident - and assault by penetration.

He will stand trial for a maximum of five days from July 31, 2023 and was bailed with the condition of not contacting the complainant.

The court was told by Judge Anthony Lowe that the complainant will give evidence to jury via a live link, though an application will have to be made by Curley’s defence objecting to plans for it to be from another building.

Judge Lowe also arranged for a pre-trial review for June, 2023 to ensure the trial is ready.

He also called on Curley to ensure he is in 'a state of sobriety' when the trial takes place next year.